The Election Commission of India on Tuesday sought an explanation from at least 3 media houses for displaying poll surveys following complaints received against them. The Poll Body in a statement stated that it has received complaints against three media groups for displaying prediction polls amidst the ongoing national elections 2019.

EC in the notice to media group said to furnish response and said why action should not be initiated against them for violating the certain provisions of the Section 126A of
Representation of People Act.

The Poll Commission has asked the media groups to furnish explanations within 48 hours. It is been alleged that these media groups have broadcasted the poll surveys amidst the ongoing national polls 2019.

“Section 126 of the Representation of the People, 1951, prohibits displaying any election matter by means, inter alia, of television or similar apparatus, during the period of 48 hours before the hour fixed for conclusion of poll in a constituency.”

Section 126 of the Representation of the people, 1951, also prohibits no one is allowed to conduct or broadcast any exit poll in any kind of media be it print/electronic or propagate in any manner.

In the case of national elections, the period starts from the beginning of poll on the First day till the half an hour after the closing of the poll in all states of the country. All media houses are only allowed to telecast the exit polls after 6:30 pm on May 19.

General Elections 2019 is being held across seven phases starting April 11 to May 19. Counting of the votes will be held on May 23. Voting of the remaining 59 constituencies of 11 stated and UTs will be held in the last and seventh phase on May 19.

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